Eleven people in Paterson face criminal charges after police break up what's described as a cock fighting ring.

The raid occurred Saturday night at a building in an industrial area near Route 19. Officers allegedly came upon dozens of people who had wagered thousands of dollars on the contests.

Most of the participants escaped by jumping over fences or onto roofs.

The 11 people arrested weren't identified, but Passaic County SPCA Chief Robert Boyle says the ringleader is at large. Those arrested face third-degree animal fighting charges. They are scheduled to appear in court Monday.

Authorities found about 50 live chickens and took them to a shelter. They also found drugs that allegedly were given to the birds to bulk them up as well as metal talons used in fighting.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

 

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